Legislative Update: District 4 and 5 Representatives Navigate “Meaty” Week in Pierre

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - As the 101st South Dakota legislative session crossed its third-week milestone, the halls of the State Capitol were filled with spirited debate over healthcare funding, agricultural standards, and fiscal responsibility. With nearly 500 bills now introduced, lawmakers from Districts 4 and 5 are wrestling with significant policy shifts that could reshape the state’s rural landscape.

The “Big Ticket” Item: Rural Healthcare Transformation

The defining moment of the week was the passage of HB 1044, a bill that authorizes the state to spend approximately $402 million in federal funds for the Rural Health Transformation Program.

While the bill passed both chambers by wide margins and was promptly signed by Governor Noem, it was not without local controversy. Representative Dylan Jordan (R-4) was one of 13 “NAY” votes, expressing deep concern over what he termed a “blank check” for unelected officials.

“Rural health care in South Dakota needs help, but giving a ‘blank check’ to the Department of Health is NOT the answer,” Jordan stated.

Conversely, Senator Glen Vilhauer (R-5) and Representative Matt Roby (R-5) championed the measure, with Roby noting that it allows the state to use designated federal funds to improve hospitals, EMS services, and the rural healthcare workforce.

The Great “Fake Meat” Debate

Agriculture, South Dakota’s “king” industry, took center stage with HB 1077, which sought to ban “cultivated protein” (lab-grown meat) by labeling it “adulterated food”.

The bill divided the District 4 delegation:

·        Representative Kent Roe (R-4), a beef producer himself, spoke at length against the bill. While he shares concerns about lab-grown products, Roe warned that the bill’s current language mirrors bans in Florida and Texas that are currently mired in costly federal lawsuits.

·        Representative Dylan Jordan supported the ban, arguing it is a necessary stand to protect the South Dakota way of life from global agendas pushing for reduced beef consumption.

A related measure, HB 1064, which allows for the direct sale of producer-raised meat to consumers pending federal legalization, passed the House despite opposition from Representative Roe, who raised concerns about bypassing food safety and inspection standards.

Fiscal Watchdogs and Local Control

Beyond the high-profile agricultural and health bills, several other measures saw floor action:

·        School Tax Levies: The Senate passed SB 85, which would require all school district “opt-out” votes to go directly to a public vote. Senator Vilhauer opposed the measure, arguing that the current system is sufficient and that the change could delay vital local projects.

·        Electrician Licenses: SB 62, which proposed discontinuing Class B electrician licenses, was defeated after what Vilhauer described as a “surprisingly spirited” debate.

·        Term Limits: SJR 501 passed the Senate and will move to the House; if approved by voters in 2026, it would cap legislative service at 16 consecutive years.

·        Cash is King: The House passed HCR 6004, a resolution encouraging the use of physical cash in South Dakota to protect financial privacy and rights.

Looking Ahead

With the deadline for individual bill introductions fast approaching on February 4th, lawmakers expect a “flurry” of new proposals. Representative Roe is set to bring his data center bill (HB 1005) to the House State Affairs Committee, while Representative Jordan continues to advocate for a resolution (HCR 6007) rooted in limited government and deregulation.

District 4 and 5 constituents are encouraged to meet with their delegation at upcoming “Cracker Barrel” events:

·        Farm Show: February 14th at 8:00 AM

·        Home Show: March 14th at 10:00 AM

·        Location: Codington County Extension Complex